Chris Ofili and his presence at biennials and fairs
Published on 08/28/2026 at 13:37 | Editorial responsibility: Rafael Müller, Editor-in-Chief AD HOC NEWS
Chris Ofili stands as a key figure in how contemporary painting enters major institutional contexts. In 2026 his work appears in expansive group exhibitions such as Project a Black Planet: The Art and Culture of Panafrica at London’s Barbican, per the gallery’s exhibition listing, and in collection shows that underline his ongoing relevance.
Chris Ofili at Pan-African surveys
The Barbican Art Gallery in London lists Project a Black Planet: The Art and Culture of Panafrica as running from June 11, 2026 to September 6, 2026, naming Chris Ofili among participating artists alongside Marlene Dumas and Claudette Johnson. The show examines Pan-Africanism’s impact on art and culture across media.
The exhibition brings together more than 300 works, ranging from paintings and installations to posters, journals and film, with Ofili’s contribution positioned in a dense field of Black international practices. The Barbican listing highlights the cross-generational approach, situating Ofili within broader dialogues on diaspora and representation.
Ofili in international collection shows
Beyond London, Ofili’s work features in collection exhibitions such as A World Far Away, Nearby and Invisible: Territory Narratives in the Jorge M. Pérez Collection at El Espacio 23 in Miami, where the group show runs from November 20, 2025 to August 15, 2026 and includes nearly 150 works by over 100 artists. The roster places Ofili alongside voices from the Americas, Europe, Africa and beyond.
The Miami presentation emphasizes territory, identity and belonging, themes that intersect with Ofili’s longstanding engagement with diasporic histories and spiritual symbolism. Curated by Claudia Segura Campins, the exhibition underscores how Ofili’s practice is read in relation to geopolitical narratives and collection strategies focused on the Global South.
Further news and background on Chris Ofili
Readers can explore more coverage on Chris Ofili’s exhibitions, institutional projects and market developments in the AD HOC NEWS archive, from earlier Tate surveys to recent collection shows.
How the artist builds his images
Chris Ofili, born in Manchester in 1968, is widely recognized for richly layered paintings that merge figurative and abstract elements with decorative, often shimmering surfaces. His works frequently incorporate historical references, folklore and spiritual motifs, creating complex narrative worlds within each composition.
Where the artist stands now
Against this backdrop, Chris Ofili’s practice continues to evolve across institutional surveys and collection shows, with his long-term projects at Tate Britain and ICA Miami forming a sustained presence rather than a single upcoming date in the current 30-day window.
Key facts on Chris Ofili
- Artist: Chris Ofili
- Medium / Genre: Painting (figurative-abstract, installation)
- Born: 1968, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Place(s) of practice: Studio activity between the United Kingdom and international exhibition venues
- Active since: Early 1990s, with broader recognition following mid-1990s exhibitions
- Key work groups: The Holy Virgin Mary, The Seven Deadly Sins, extended installation at ICA Miami, long-running survey at Tate Britain
- Current/last exhibition: Project a Black Planet: The Art and Culture of Panafrica, Barbican Art Gallery, London, June 11, 2026 – September 6, 2026
- Major collections: Tate (London), Museum of Contemporary Art holdings, significant private collections such as the Jorge M. Pérez Collection
- Awards: Turner Prize 1998
- Next date: currently no announced date in the 30-day window
Frequently asked questions about Chris Ofili
Where is Chris Ofili currently on view in 2026?
Chris Ofili’s work is featured in Project a Black Planet: The Art and Culture of Panafrica at Barbican Art Gallery in London, running from June 11, 2026 to September 6, 2026, and in collection shows such as the Jorge M. Pérez Collection exhibition in Miami.
Which themes recur in Chris Ofili’s major works?
Ofili often addresses spirituality, mythology, Black diaspora histories and the interplay of ornament and narrative, using layered surfaces and vivid color to connect personal symbolism with broader cultural references.
Which award established Chris Ofili’s prominence?
The Turner Prize he received in 1998 marked a significant early recognition of his work within the British and international art scenes, cementing his role in discussions of contemporary painting and representation.
This article was produced with a.i. support and editorially reviewed. All statements without guarantee; auction results, exhibition dates and awards may change at short notice.
